Fall River Police investigating alleged assault on swans

Fall River Police are currently investigating an incident where a man reportedly kicked two swans.

According to a witness, on Tuesday April 27th, a man jumped over the fence where the boat ramp is at the Battleship Cove and began repeatedly and viciously kicking the swans as they were trying to protect their eggs.

The witness was not able to capture the suspect’s face as he fled and she reportedly yelled for him to stop hitting the swans until he eventually left.

The witness stated that the man got into a white van. The suspect has been described as having a small build.

“They were canoeing and had the van outside the gate then loaded the canoe on the van. The driver stayed inside while the intoxicated man was abusing and kicking the swans. Unfortunately there was three other people there and none of us took pictures of him nor the van and plates.”

The suspect can be seen partially in the above pictures.

City Councilor Christopher Peckham heard about the incident and spoke to Fall River Police Chief Jeff Cardoza this afternoon.

“The Police Department did respond. There was an individual arrested at the scene for different offenses. I have the pictures and I will be sending them to the Chief shortly to see if there’s a link between both incidents. Chief Cardoza also stated that he has instructed our Animal Control Officers to pay special attention to that nest. Thank you to the people that took the pictures. This literally made me sick to my stomach. Anyone with further information at the request of the Chief should contact Officer Glenn McDonald of the FRPD. 508-676-8511.”

UPDATE: Fall River Police make arrest in Battleship Cove swan assault